Great Hall of the People

The Great Hall of the People in Beijing is one site that should not be missed. Group Tours do not include it because it is the government's political meeting building as well as a reception hall for foreign dignitaries. It is sometimes closed to the public during these events. Most people visit it during some free time as it is located on the west side of Tiananmen Square. The many reception rooms one of which is pictured above are each decorated for one of the Provinces of the country. Although you can not enter them, there are glass windows to look in and view them. It also has the largest stage in the country and can seat 10,000 people. There is a cafeteria located in the building where you can have lunch and is often used for State Dinners. Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Mao's Tomb, the Great Hall of the People and the History Museum are all located in one area and within easy walking distance of hotels near Wangfujing Mall. Click on the photos for a full screen view!